American Violet - 2008

Movie #133

5 stars

Inspired by true events, this penetrating drama centers on Dee Roberts (Nicole Beharie), a 24-year-old mother of four who's forced to take on a corrupt district attorney (Michael O'Keefe) when she's unjustly prosecuted in a large-scale drug case. Directed by Tim Disney, the inspiring tale also stars Alfre Woodard as Dee's mother, Alma, Tim Blake Nelson as ACLU attorney David Cohen and Will Patton as retired narcotics officer Sam Conroy.

Cast: Nicole Beharie, Michael O'Keefe, Will Patton, Alfre Woodard, Tim Blake Nelson, Scott A. Martin, Malcolm Barrett, Charles S. Dutton, Jackson Beals, Michael Beasley, Samantha Beaulieu

Director: Tim Disney

Filming Location: New Orleans (even though it is set in Texas)

Yes, director Tim Disney is indeed the grand nephew of Walt Disney) - surprising because of the fact that this film is anything but a fun filled day at Disney. However, the viewer becomes emotionally attached to each character as the truth of the unjust drug raids is unraveled.


















The movie is "based on a true story," which always makes the movie a little more interesting (especially horror...think about it). But it also makes the viewer wonder how much is true and how much is just Hollywood. It is disheartening to think that people actually have to go through such events. This film shows people practically forced to take a plea bargain because they are afraid of the maximum penalty...even if they are innocent. The director says that 95% of the movie is based on reality. Which is still pretty high. In a perfect world though you would want 0% of this story to be based on reality.

I have read a lot of the film's reviews and I sadly have to say...most critics are somewhat bashing this movie. Why? Basically because this movie has been made so many times. I disagree...sooo much.



Regina Kelly (who the film is based on) and Nicole Beharie

And yes, that is Xhibit...

Moving on...the best actor (besides Nicole Beharie of course) was Malcolm Barrett. He played Byron Hill, the ACLU lawyer's assistant. His one scene was sooo pivotal to the movie and up until that point his character barely said a word. Excellent job. Oh...and he certainty transformed himself from his Better of Ted character.












Overall Recommendation: WATCH IT!